Scott seems to have a plan. First, he knows the Lakers must focus on defense. Second, according to ESPNS’s Ramona Shelburne, he and Kobe have to teach an important lesson to these young Lakers.

In this situation, where it’s just Kobe — who really understands what it means to be a Laker — and myself, who understands what it means to be a Laker — you’ve got two guys coming from two different perspectives, but delivering the same message. That’s important. That’s important for Swaggy P and Wesley Johnson and Ryan Kelly who need to understand what it means to put that purple and gold on.

The Lakers are unlike any other franchise in sports. Putting on that purple and gold means more than just putting on a jersey to play basketball. The Lakers franchise is a representation of class, greatness, and being the best.

Kobe has been with the franchise for 18 years and won five championships. Byron Scott played 11 seasons and won three rings himself, and served as a mentor for Kobe when he first entered the league in 1996.

This season isn’t just about returning the Lakers to former glory, it’s about restoring the Lakers franchise and brand to what it should always represent. Kobe and Scott know what that mean, and soon, the rest of the team will too.
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Lakers Hire New Coach Byron Scott